Lincoln University Cooperative Extension hosted a composting workshop on March 15, according to an April 15 announcement, bringing together gardeners, students, and community members interested in learning how to create nutrient-rich soil from everyday waste.
The event aimed to help participants understand the importance of composting as a method for restoring nutrients to the soil. Composting is seen as a practical way for individuals to contribute positively to their local environment and support healthy plant growth.
Lea Langdon of Wild Ones and the Missouri Native Plant Society’s St. Louis Chapter led the session. “Composting is like helping Mother Nature along,” Langdon said. “We’re mimicking the natural process, helping things break down and decompose.” She explained that successful compost piles require a balance between nitrogen-rich “greens” such as kitchen scraps and coffee grounds, and carbon-rich “browns” like leaves or straw. According to Langdon, “We can’t keep taking and not give back, because the soil will degrade. Composting is a way to give back.”
Attendees participated in hands-on demonstrations at Lincoln University’s Finca EcoFarm after learning about different methods for building compost systems during classroom sessions. The workshop also highlighted how airflow, moisture levels, particle size, and turning the pile all influence decomposition rates.
The program was supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Capacity Building Grant: Urban Agriculture Learning Hub at Lincoln University. Sharon Williams attended after seeing an event flyer at her local farmers market. “This is a great way to learn,” Williams said.
Lincoln University Cooperative Extension features competitive Division II athletics and its Marching Musical Storm band according to its official website. The institution maintains a diverse student body from across the nation and globally according to its official website, offers more than 50 undergraduate and master’s programs according to its official website, focuses on educating students while fostering community development through its programs according to its official website, is recognized as the only historically Black college established by formerly enslaved Black soldiers in the United States according to its official website, and draws students from around the world according to its official website.
By combining classroom instruction with field experience, Lincoln University Cooperative Extension continues efforts toward supporting healthier plants while engaging both new learners and experienced growers.
